HONOR has officially started local smartphone production in Bangladesh by opening an AI-integrated manufacturing plant at the Hi-Tech Park in Kaliakair, Gazipur. The factory — launched in partnership with Smart Technologies and backed by Tk150 crore — marks a major step toward positioning Bangladesh as a competitive device manufacturing hub.
In its initial phase, the facility will operate one production line capable of assembling 60,000 units annually, with plans to expand to four lines within the first year and eventually enter the export market. Smart Technologies Managing Director Mohammad Zahirul Islam noted that the factory’s design blends global AI-driven manufacturing standards with local expertise, reinforcing Bangladesh’s industrial capability.
Faiz Ahmad Taiyeb, special assistant to the chief adviser for the ICT ministry, highlighted that the government is committed to supporting secure investment and expanding local device manufacturing. He noted that smartphone usage currently sits around 41%–45%, with sales dropping from USD 10 billion in 2021 to USD 8 billion due to policy issues and illegal imports.
He added that upcoming enforcement of the National Equipment Identity Register (NEIR) will curb illegal device imports, and the government will review import duties to promote local manufacturing and increase smartphone penetration to 70%–80%.
HONOR Southeast Asia President George Zheng said the factory symbolizes a long-term partnership with Bangladesh, enabling job creation, skill development, and technology transfer. HONOR, which entered the Bangladeshi market in late 2023 and now holds about 3% market share, aims to reach 10% as local production ramps up.
Officials from the government, BTRC, Hi-Tech Park Authority, and company executives also attended the ceremony, underscoring strong institutional support for Bangladesh’s growing device manufacturing ecosystem.
